“Calder: In Motion, The Shirley Family Collection” at Seattle Art Museum.

On November 8, 2023, the Seattle Art Museum debuted the first presentation in what will be an ongoing series of exhibitions and events related to renowned American artist Alexander Calder (1898-1976). “Calder: In Motion, The Shirley Family Collection“ premiers the transformative gift of Calder artworks donated to SAM by Jon and Kim Shirley, nearly 50 pieces spanning his entire career. On view are iconic hanging “mobiles“ and ground based “stabiles“ - which I incorrectly refer to in the video as “sabiles,“ leaving out the “t“ - but also lesser known works on paper, a painting and a figurative sculpture. With the Shirley’s gift, the Seattle Art Museum has become the leading destination in the world to experience the work of Alexander Calder.